Hey all,

I don't imagine I have to detail the events in Japan over the last month or so, but I did not notice that Valve are trying to do their bit to encourage their TF2 player base to donate (indirectly) to the relief effort. They are doing this by selling three limited edition hats, the proceeds from which will go directly to relief fund established by the American Red Cross.

As much as the prices of hats (in my opinion) on the Mann Co. store are a little pricey for what they are, I'd encourage anyone who can afford to donate to do so on this occasion.

I can only speak from my own perspective of course, but having lived in Japan in former years, I made a number of friends there, 3 of which were lost in the disastrous events over there. The pain and anguish I felt for their loss is but a pittance in comparison to what many of the residents of Japan have experienced, many losing everything they have and being forced into a "refugee" status.

I know many of us don't have the funds to be able to contribute to the relief effort with detriment to ourselves, and I completely appreciate that. However, if its within your power to do so, I'd strongly encourage this small act of benevolence. To put it in context, WKH currently has 446 members. If even half of us were able to purchase one hat ($7.99), that contribution in total would equate to $1782 (minus applicable taxes) - no small change, even in the face of such disaster.

All the details you need are here:

http://www.teamfortress.com/post.php?id=5170

Alternatively, you can donate directly to the Red Cross fund by going to their website here:

https://american.redcross.org/site/Donation2?5052.donation=form1&df_id=5052&idb=0

Thank you in advance to all the members who may take this opportunity to help.

B